Forces fortify key Arunachal bridge to fight dam objectors

DITE DIME: Anti-dam protests have prompted a major security build-up at the Dite-Dime bridge in Arunachal Pradesh, a key crossing towards the India-China border that connects four proposed drilling sites for a pre-feasibility survey of the 11,200 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project.Forces have heavily fortified the bridge, deploying large numbers of CAPF personnel, as it has become a focal point of the anti-dam movement, hosting dharnas and protests against the proposed survey.

Officials said 30 companies of CAPF had been deployed across protest-hit districts. Three companies of Assam Police Battalion were stationed in Pasighat.Also known as 65 Bridge, the Dite-Dime bridge is a critical bottleneck on the Dite-Dime-Migging highway towards Tuting near the Line of Actual Control. At least four women were wounded in a clash at Dite-Dime on Oct 23 during a 12-hour bandh.

More than 150 supporters allegedly threw stones at security personnel, tried to breach barricades and damaged security vehicles, police sources said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.